By MANA
Malawi and Ireland have launched the Ireland–Malawi Agri-Food Systems Programme (IMAGRI), a four-year initiative aimed at strengthening food safety systems and boosting export readiness for local enterprises.
Speaking during the joint meeting In Lilongwe, Acting Director of Knowledge and Learning at the National Planning Commission, Andrew Jamali, said the programme seeks to improve the quality and safety of edible goods.
“The purpose is to strengthen Malawi’s trade competitiveness by enabling more producers to meet regional and global export standards,” he said.
Director of Sustainable Food Systems in Ireland, David Butler, described food safety as central to both public health and economic growth.
“Food safety is critical for preventing foodborne illness and for unlocking commercialisation and access to international markets,” he said.
Malawi Bureau of Standards Director of Standards Development, Fred Sikwese, emphasised harmonising inspections.
“We are taking a farm-to-fork approach to improve hygienic practices and ensure Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) meet local and international requirements,” he said.
The programme will initially support 20 SMEs before scaling up.
